Rabida Island

Added
05 Nov 2017
in Tour Reports
We have sailed overnight to Rabida Island where we have our first wet-landing on a red sandy beach. We set out on the trail and see cactus finches, frigate birds, and a Galápagos hawk close-up and personal. Wildlife in Galapagos does not view us as a predator, so basically, they take no notice! After a good walk on a circular trail, we head back to find sea lions on the beach. After some tasty "welcome back snacks", we try on snorkelling gear – and with wetsuits, fins and masks all donned, we head back to the beach for our first foray into the underwater world of the Galápagos. Those who have snorkelled before are soon heading off exploring the fish. And those of us who haven’t or just need a reminder, are soon in the water trying out the equipment. We also offered a kayaking expedition to find sea turtles, sea birds and sea lions. A fabulous first morning in the Galápagos.

After a siesta we head off for our afternoon landing. The ship had repositioned to Santiago Island and specifically Puerto Egas. We follow a circular trail which takes us both inland and along the coastline. We are rewarded with many sea birds: whimbrels, ruddy turnstones, plovers, sandpipers, oystercatchers. As well as some of Darwin's finches, some colourful yellow warblers and some mocking birds. At the half-way point of the trail we manage to spot a Galápagos fur seal – a different species of sea lion. It feeds at night and is relatively inactive during the daytime. We also see many sea lions, some babies who were suckling from their mothers, and some very noisy young males, trying to claim their territory.

Back on board our mother ship we all share our experiences with fellow travellers, show photos and get ready for our briefing about tomorrow's activities. After dinner we head to our cabins for another early night. It’s been an active, but fantastic day in Galápagos!